A Fatal Case of Septic Tank Gas Poisoning: Critical Care Challenges

Septic tanks [1] are enclosed areas made for accumulation of decomposed domestic wastes, sewerage and its resultant gases. Sewer gases can be both toxic and non-toxic. Its major component is Methane [2], which can be extremely toxic in high concentrations. Sewer gas is a mixture of Hydrogen Sulphide, Ammonia, Carbon-dioxide, Nitrogen dioxide, Sulphur dioxide and sometimes, even carbon monoxide. The concentration of these components differs with the time, sewage composition, temperature and pH of the contents. Hydrogen sulphide [3] can be poisonous even in small concentrations in the form of irritation of the eyes, shortness of breath and incessant cough. Exposure to higher concentrations can be rapidly fatal. We hereby present a fatal case of septic tank gas poisoning in a young patient and the critical care challenges faced.